Gun laws have passed; time to enforce them

Carol Rush

Posted:
04/09/2013 08:44:18 PM MDT

To the editor:

I find it disturbing to read that Larimer County Sheriff Justin Smith is speaking out against gun control legislation recently passed by the Colorado state Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Hickenlooper. The sheriff is not only speaking out against the new laws but says that he won't enforce them.

All along, I have thought that the job of the sheriff and his deputies was to enforce the law. All along, I have thought that the job of the legislators and the governor was to make the laws. Did I get it wrong? Did I, along with a majority of the other voters here in Colorado, elect Sheriff Smith to a legislative post? Is it his job to make the laws now? Or does he just decide to enforce the laws he likes and not bother with the laws he doesn't like?

Those opposing gun legislation have fears that their right to bear arms is threatened by the laws passed here in Colorado. Many of us don't share this sentiment. To us, requiring background checks and limiting the size of ammunition packs makes sense. Prohibiting online-only training for concealed weapon permits and prohibiting gun sales to those who commit domestic violence are reasonable limitations. Offering more help to the mentally ill is essential. None of these limitations takes away the Colorado citizens' legitimate rights to bear arms. And as these gun controls become law, it is up to our law enforcement officers to do their job as law enforcers.

Polls show that an overwhelming majority of Americans, including an overwhelming majority of Coloradans, support stricter gun control legislation. The recent action on the part of the Colorado Legislature and governor reflect the will of the people. They are serving the people. If the citizens of this state change their mind regarding gun control, they will vote for a different slate of legislators at the next election. Until then, Sheriff Smith, please enforce the law of the land.